The Philosophy of C. D. Broad – Analytic Precision and Moral Insight | The Library of Living Philosophers | Volume X, 1959 | Review, Analysis & Summary

The Philosophy of C. D. Broad, edited by Paul Arthur Schilpp and released in 1959, constitutes Volume XI of the esteemed Library of Living Philosophers series. This edition honors Charlie Dunbar Broad (1887–1971), a prominent figure in 20th-century analytic philosophy, celebrated for his remarkable clarity in the realms of metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, and the philosophy of mind.
Broad's philosophical impact stems from his analytical precision, systematic approach, and receptiveness to subjects often overlooked in mainstream philosophy, such as psychical research and consciousness. This volume serves as an important reference for scholars and students desiring a comprehensive grasp of both early analytic philosophy and Broad's lasting influence.

Who Was C. D. Broad?

C. D. Broad was a British philosopher who held the position of Professor of Moral Philosophy at the University of Cambridge. He earned respect for his clear writing, systematic analysis, and his capability to connect metaphysical considerations with analytical precision.
Areas of focus comprised:

• Epistemology: the limits and nature of knowledge
• Metaphysics: particularly concerning time, causality, and the nature of the mind
• Ethics: including moral realism and theories of duty
• Philosophy of Mind: exploring consciousness and psychical occurrences

His prominent works include:

• The Mind and Its Place in Nature (1925)
• Five Types of Ethical Theory (1930)
• Scientific Thought (1923)

While not as recognized today as some contemporaries, Broad's meticulous reasoning profoundly influenced thinkers such as A. J. Ayer, G. E. Moore, and J. L. Austin.

Structure of the Volume

This volume adheres to the customary LLP structure, melding original philosophical insights with a thoughtfully curated scholarly discourse.

1. Philosophical Autobiography

Broad’s autobiographical piece outlines his intellectual development, early inspirations (notably Kant, McTaggart, and Russell), and his thoughts on the evolving philosophical scene in the early 20th century.

2. Key Selections of Broad’s Work

The volume features significant excerpts that encompass:

• The concept of emergentism in the philosophy of mind
• Moral obligation alongside moral realism
• Analyzing time, free will, and causation
• Critical perspectives on psychical research and its overarching philosophical significance

3. Critical Essays by Scholars

A collection of essays by prominent philosophers engage with Broad’s concepts in areas such as:

• Epistemology and sensory perception
• Ethics and the objectivity of moral truths
• The induction problem
• Philosophy of science

Prominent contributors include:

• A. J. Ayer – discussing Broad’s role in analytic philosophy
• R. B. Braithwaite – focusing on scientific methodologies
• C. A. Mace, D. M. Armstrong, among others – examining Broad’s perspectives on the mind

4. C. D. Broad’s Replies

In an extensive concluding section, Broad addresses each essay with his characteristic clarity and modesty, elucidating essential distinctions, disputing misinterpretations, and further articulating aspects of his views—especially those related to ethics and metaphysics.

Key Philosophical Contributions of C. D. Broad

1. Philosophy of Mind and Emergentism

Broad is recognized for advocating emergentism, the concept that mental attributes arise from physical systems in non-reducible ways. This concept paved the way for contemporary discussions in the field of consciousness studies and non-reductive physicalism.

2. Moral Realism and Ethical Theory

In "Five Types of Ethical Theory," Broad meticulously examines various moral theories and advocates for a sophisticated version of moral realism, asserting that moral truths are independent of human perception.

3. Metaphysics of Time and Causation

He provided an in-depth examination of time, making a clear distinction between subjective experiences and objective time. Additionally, he analyzed causality within a rigorous framework that honors both scientific and common understandings.

4. Epistemology and Perception

Broad investigated sensory perception, differentiating between direct and indirect knowledge. His research significantly influenced the analytical discussions surrounding sense-data theory and the trustworthiness of perception.

5. Psychical Research

In contrast to many of his peers, Broad regarded psychical research (such as telepathy and precognition) with seriousness—not as a matter of doctrine, but as evidence deserving philosophical exploration. His writings in this area were marked by both caution and an openness to possibilities.

Why This Volume Matters

This volume is crucial for:

• Learners of analytic philosophy and the philosophy of mind
• Researchers delving into the foundations of ethics and epistemology
• Individuals interested in the early analytic movement beyond Russell and Moore
• Philosophers examining emergence, time, and consciousness

The Philosophy of C. D. Broad offers a profound and balanced intellectual representation of a thinker who merged precision with inquiry, and analytical prowess with moral insight.